Columbia River Fishing Report 2025: Sturgeon Closure, Salmon and Walleye Action Abound

As of January 10, 2025, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is quite active, despite some recent changes in the sturgeon fishing season. ### Tidal and Weather Report Since the Columbia River is a freshwater system, tidal reports are not directly applicable, but weather conditions are crucial. Today, expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit. Sunrise was at around 7:50 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:45 PM. ### Fish Activity The sturgeon fishing season, which opened on January 1, has already seen significant action. However, due to the high number of keepers caught on New Year’s Day, the fishery in the Bonneville and The Dalles pools was closed by Oregon and Washington fisheries managers after just one day. This means that anglers looking to keep sturgeon are currently out of luck, but catch-and-release trips are still available and highly recommended. ### Fish Caught Yesterday, sturgeon fishing was excellent, with many anglers catching their keepers before the season closure. For those interested in other species, salmon fishing, particularly for coho and chinook, has been good in the Hood River area and below Bonneville Dam. Walleye fishing is also active, especially in the lower Columbia River where the water is warmer. ### Best Lures and Bait For sturgeon, the best bait includes anchovies, herring, and squid. When targeting salmon, use lures like spinners, spoons, and plugs. For walleye, jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or minnows are highly effective. ### Hot Spots - **The Columbia River Gorge**: This area is renowned for its sturgeon fishing and offers breathtaking scenery. Even though the keeper season is closed, catch-and-release trips here can be exhilarating. - **Hood River Area**: This spot has been producing good results for salmon, particularly coho and chinook. - **Below Bonneville Dam**: This area is a hotspot for walleye, thanks to the deep pool created by the dam. If you're looking for a thrilling day on the water, consider a guided trip with local experts who can provide the best insights and ensure a memorable fishing experience. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.